The U.S. Navy now has a second squadron made up exclusively of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for patrol and reconnaissance — this one with more of a focus on Pacific and Arctic patrols.
As per a recent press statement by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Unmanned Patrol Squadron (VUP) 11 has been established at NAS Whidbey Island in Washington, which lies just south of the Canadian border on America’s west coast, roughly midway between Seattle and Vancouver.
Like its precursor VUP-19 already operating out of NAS Jacksonville, Florida, the squadron operates MQ-4C Tritons, the high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) UAS built by Northrop Grumman.
Nicknamed the “Dark Horses”, VUP-11 assets will operate under Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing (CPRW) 10. Whereas VUP-19 was reportedly established to support ISR operations across the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Middle East, the newly-established VUP-11 is expected to focus more on contested arenas on the other side of the globe, including parts of the South China Sea and the Arctic.
Based on the RQ-4 Global Hawk platform developed by Northrop Grumman for the U.S. Air Force, the navalised MQ-4C Triton features a reinforced airframe and a de-icing system, meaning it can operate above ocean environments for extended periods.
With a 40–metre wingspan and an 8,200-nautical-mile range, MQ-4Cs are capable of flying above 50,000 feet for more than 24 hours continuously.
The NAVAIR statement noted: “The MQ-4C represents the Navy’s commitment to advanced unmanned technology and serves as a crucial component of the fleet’s airborne ISR capabilities.
“It works in tandem with the P-8A Poseidon multi-mission aircraft in support of the mission of the maritime patrol and reconnaissance force (MPRF).”
VUP-11’s Commanding Officer Commander Brandon Pierce commented: “The continued growth of the Triton community underscores its critical role in supporting fleet and combatant commanders. Our sailors possess incredible technical expertise, which will only grow as the program matures.”
- You can read more details on the DVIDS website